Behavioral Health Technician

DRISCOLL HEALTH PLAN•Corpus Christi, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct patient care and supports the safety, stabilization, and therapeutic engagement of pediatric patients experiencing behavioral health challenges. Working under the supervision of unit staff with clinical guidance from licensed mental health specialists, the BHT implements individualized treatment and behavior plans, monitors patient safety, and contributes to a structured, trauma-informed care environment. The BHT collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to support patients with complex behavioral and mental health needs, often with co-occurring medical conditions. This role requires strong observation skills, professionalism, effective communication, and the ability to respond appropriately in crisis situations. The BHT may administer hospital-approved behavioral and mental health screenings and provide support to the behavioral health team as needed within scope of role and training. This job description reflects the general duties and responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Responsibilities may be adjusted based on organizational and patient care requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Associate or bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, child development, or related field (or currently enrolled in a program related to the fields aforementioned).
One (1) year of experience working with children or individuals with behavioral health needs preferred
Experience in inpatient, residential, emergency, or healthcare settings preferred
Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) – required within 30 days of hire
Crisis Prevention/Intervention Training – required within 60 days of hire
Workplace Violence Prevention Training – required per hospital policy
Understanding of behavioral health principles and trauma-informed care
Ability to recognize and respond to escalating behaviors
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to maintain professional boundaries
Effective crisis management and de-escalation skills
Ability to follow structured treatment plans with consistency
Basic computer and EMR documentation skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment

Nice To Haves

Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Experience with neurodivergent populations (ASD, ADHD).
Familiarity with sensory tools and regulation strategies
Certified Mental Health Technician (CMHT) – preferred

Responsibilities

Provide continuous or intermittent observation of patients assigned
Monitor patient behavior, mood, and safety risks; promptly report changes
Maintain a safe environment by identifying and removing hazards
Implement safety protocols including suicide precautions, elopement prevention, and close observation
Assist in crisis intervention using approved de-escalation techniques
Participate in physical management interventions per training and policy
Implement individualized behavior plans developed by the clinical team
Maintain consistency in expectations, boundaries, and interventions
Recognize triggers and early warning signs of escalation
Utilize proactive strategies to prevent behavioral crises
Engage patients in developmentally appropriate therapeutic, recreational, and skill-building activities
Reinforce coping strategies and treatment goals established by licensed clinicians
Support structured group activities under supervision (may co-facilitate as appropriate)
Promote a trauma-informed, respectful, and supportive environment
Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) including hygiene, meals, and transitions
Support safe patient transport and mobility
Assist unit as directed within scope of role and training
Accurately document observations, behaviors, and interventions in the medical record
Communicate changes in patient status to nursing and clinical team members
Participate in shift huddles, team meetings, and care coordination
Provide supportive, professional interactions with families
Reinforce unit structure, expectations, and general coping strategies (within role scope)
Model trauma-informed communication and behavior
Maintain a clean, organized, and therapeutic environment
Monitor and restock supplies as needed
Assist with basic clerical tasks (e.g., answering phones, documentation support, patient flow tasks) as assigned
Support overall unit efficiency and operations within scope of role and training